A devastating landslide has hit Papua New Guinea, razing six villages and causing the deaths of more than 670 people, according to the latest toll provided by a United Nations official. Serhan Aktopraka UN representative, reported that “there are approximately 150 houses buried and an estimated 670 people are dead.”
Emergency services are racing against time to search survivors in the disaster area. The rough terrain and damage to major roads make rescue operations extremely difficult. Some areas are only accessible by helicopter.
Papua New: the causes of the tragedy
The landslide, probably caused by heavy rains in recent weeks, destroyed livestock, crops and sources of clean water. The Enga highlands, in the north of the island in the southwestern Pacificwere particularly affected in the night between Thursday and Friday. More than 24 hours later, the number of people trapped under the rubble remains uncertain.
The first minister from Papua New Guinea, James Marapesaid the government is working with local officials to provide rescue, recover bodies and rebuild infrastructure. US President Joe Biden also offered assistance, calling Papua New Guinea a “close partner and friend” of the US.
This tragedy raises many questions and concerns. What think What could be done to prevent similar disasters in the future?
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